SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – State Representative Angelo Puppolo says that he will not be seeking a seat in the State Senate, deciding instead to run for re-election to the house seat he has held since 2007.

The Springfield Democrat announced in a statement sent to 22News Monday that he felt there was more work to do in the House, and added that he already missed time that he wanted to spend with his family while considering a run for the Senate.

“While I have been overwhelmed with support from across the area calling on me to run for Senate, I have decided to do what’s best for my family and constituents of the 12th Hampden District and to continue the strong effective leadership for Wilbraham and parts of Springfield and East Longmeadow,” Puppolo said.

The 1st Hampden and Hampshire Senate District is currently held by Sen. Gale Candaras (D-Wilbraham), who is not running for re-election this year, so that she can run for Hampden County Register of Probate. Prior to her election to the Senate in 2006, Candaras held the House seat that Puppolo currently holds.

Democratic Ludlow Selectman James “Chip” Harrington and East Longmeadow Selectwoman Debra Boronski, a Republican, have already launched campaigns for the seat, though more candidates may still emerge.